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Ochsner finalizes joint venture with Christus Health in Lake Charles

Ochsner Health System has finalized an agreement with Christus Health in Lake Charles to create a joint venture in the region, a deal that includes operations of two hospitals, a charitable foundation and other clinics and facilities.

The deal was originally announced last summer, and officials said Wednesday the joint venture took effect Saturday. As part of the deal, Ochsner will become a minority member of Christus Health Southwestern Louisiana.

The announcement comes after approval from regulators, a process that included a public hearing in Lake Charles this summer that brought public officials including U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham, R-Alto.

"This is an opportunity to share resources, learn from one another and attract more physicians to the area, so we can expand access to primary and specialty care and better coordinate the delivery of care for patients in southwest Louisiana," said Dr. Dana Smetherman, medical director of Ochsner Lake Charles region.